In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a type of assisted reproductive technology used to help couples conceive a child. This procedure involves fertilizing an egg outside the body and then implanting it in the uterus.

While it has helped many couples fulfill their dream of having a child, studies now suggest that IVF treatment may raise the risk of gestational diabetes in women.

What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. It occurs when your body cannot produce enough insulin to regulate your blood sugar levels.

This causes high levels of glucose to build up in your bloodstream, which can cause complications for both you and your baby.

According to the American Diabetes Association, 2-10% of pregnant women develop gestational diabetes.

Link between IVF and Gestational Diabetes

Recent studies suggest that women who undergo IVF treatment may be at an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes. This is because IVF can affect the way your body processes insulin and glucose.

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, women who underwent IVF treatment were more likely to develop gestational diabetes compared to women who conceived naturally.

The study found that 7.6% of women who underwent IVF developed gestational diabetes, compared to 4.9% of women who conceived naturally.

Another study published in the journal Fertility and Sterility found similar results.

The study showed that women who underwent IVF treatment had a higher risk of gestational diabetes, even after taking into account factors such as age, BMI, and family history of diabetes.

Risk Factors for Gestational Diabetes

While IVF treatment may increase the risk of gestational diabetes, there are other risk factors as well. Some of the common risk factors include:.

Family history of diabetes
Being overweight or obese
History of gestational diabetes during a previous pregnancy
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Age (women over the age of 25 are at a higher risk)

Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes may not always present with obvious symptoms, which is why it is important to get tested for it during pregnancy. However, some of the common symptoms include:.

Increased thirst
Frequent urination
Feeling tired or fatigued
Blurred vision
Frequent infections, such as UTIs

Dangers of Gestational Diabetes

Untreated gestational diabetes can cause complications for both you and your baby. Some of the dangers include:.

Increased risk of preeclampsia (a serious complication that affects blood pressure)
Increased risk of premature delivery
Increased risk of delivery via C-section
Increased risk of stillbirth
Increased risk of type 2 diabetes later in life

Preventing Gestational Diabetes

While some risk factors for gestational diabetes, such as age and family history, cannot be changed, there are some things you can do to lower your risk. Some of the ways to prevent gestational diabetes include:.

Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains
Maintaining a healthy weight before and during pregnancy
Exercising regularly
Monitoring your blood sugar levels and getting tested for gestational diabetes as recommended by your healthcare provider

Treating Gestational Diabetes

If you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. In some cases, medication such as insulin may be necessary to control your blood sugar levels.

It is important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations to prevent complications for you and your baby.

Conclusion

While IVF treatment has helped many couples conceive a child, it is important to be aware of the potential risks, such as an increased risk of gestational diabetes.

If you are considering IVF treatment, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.